Hey, guys. A rule of thumb of storytelling is having a good story to tell. That’s how I feel about my book On Account of Darkness, the re-creation of the integration of Ontario baseball in 1934. Available on Amazon and most digital platforms. But don’t take my word for it:

Taking away our hard-earned AirMiles and Optimum points is a bridge too far, Doug Ford.

What I think Jays fans overlook is that it’s much easier, for a variety of reasons, for Canadians to adapt to living in the USA than it is for Americans to adjust to living here. That’s why Vancouver (even though KP skipped that level) is an important stop in the Jays’ system.

ICYMI…..

While I don’t expect Yesavage to dominate his second time through the AL, I do think he’ll be a great mid-rotation SP. The signing of Cease is a nice bridge to 2027, when we might see the likes of Tiedemann and Stanifer as rotation regulars, with King not far behind.

Thoughts on the Blue Jays R5 decisions, prospects 11-20, and Alek Manoah’s big cleats in this edition. Future Blue Jays Newsletter

Thoughts on the Blue Jays R5 decisions, prospects 11-20, and Alek Manoah’s big cleats in this edition. Future Blue Jays Newsletter

Former Jays prospect Kendry Rojas was added to Minnesota’s 40-man roster this week.

As I predicted, Ricky Tiedemann has been added to the Blue Jays 40-man. All indications are that he’ll be ready to go by spring training, but some more time at AAA may be needed. It’s hard to see one or maybe even both of TJ Brock and Connor Cooke make it through the Rule 5.

Thoughts in advance of the Rule 5 draft. Future Blue Jays Newsletter

Thoughts in advance of the Rule 5 draft. Future Blue Jays Newsletter

Saw Tom Terrific pitch vs the Expos at Jarry Park when I was a wee wisp of a lad. Willie Mays hit his 657th HR, Iron Mike Marshall got the Save for Montreal. In the 6th inning, my Dad shoved me and the program I was keeping score in 3 rows down to get Scotty Bowman’s autograph.

Thoughts about Trey Yesavage, the 2024 draft, and the check swing challenge system in this pre-game edition. Future Blue Jays Newsletter

Phil Marchildon was born on this date in 1913 in Penetanguishene, ON. He won 68 MLB games for a 2nd division team despite not turning pro until 25, and losing 3 years to WW2. I loved playing in the Penetang arena and seeing the big photo of him in the lobby.

Stretched the foggy brain a bit this morning. Daily Walkoff ⚾️ Blue Jays #421 🟢🟢🟢🟢🚀 https://t.co/9kjbxURLs7

Barger has long been viewed as one of the strongest players in the organization.

Justin Lehr is who I’m quoting….it’s a little distracting tonight.

Even though he’s a RHP, Blue Jays MiLB Pitching Director compared Gage Stanifer to Snell. Loves how he works quickly and goes right after hitters.

This is what the 2025 Jays do.

91 years ago today, the Chatham Coloured All Stars won the OBAA Intermediate B title by whalloping the Penetanguishene Rangers 13-7 in the 4th game of the best-of-3 series. The 3rd game was called b/c of darkness. My book On Account of Darkness recreates that historic season.